Handling Difficult Colleague
Tell me about a time you had to work with a difficult coworker. How did you handle it?
Put any group of talented, passionate, and opinionated people in a high-stakes environment, and you will eventually have friction. Personalities will clash. Communication styles will differ. Disagreements will arise.
Having a "difficult colleague" is not a sign of a bad workplace; it's a normal part of working with human beings. Your ability to navigate this friction professionally, constructively, and with empathy is a superpower. It's what separates a mature team player from someone who contributes to a culture of drama and complaint.
An interviewer wants to know if you can be a stabilizing, positive force on their team.Your answer to this question reveals your emotional maturity, your problem-solving approach to interpersonal issues, and your commitment to the team's success over your own ego.